About | TGA

About the

Transplant Games of America

The Transplant Games of America were founded in 1990 with a clear purpose: to show the world that transplantation works. Held every two years in host cities across the country, what began as a sporting competition has grown into a massive national gathering for the entire transplant community.

When the Transplant Life Foundation took responsibility for the Games in 2011, the goal was to reach more families and share this mission more widely than ever before. Today, the Games welcome around 12,000 total attendees, field over 40 regional and international teams, host 20 athletic competitions, and feature more than 60 special events throughout the week.

While the Games have grown in size and stature, the core heart remains unchanged. The Transplant Games of America exist to honor donor heroes, celebrate second chances, and inspire more people to sign up to save lives.

What the Games Stand For

Honoring Donor Legacies

Without the ultimate gift of life given by thousands of donors, transplantation would not be possible. Their sacrifice is at the very center of the Games.

Throughout the week, participants find dedicated spaces to cherish and remember these heroes through quiet reflection at the Quilt Pinning Ceremony, connection at Coffee House Talks, and profound gratitude during the Donor Tribute Ceremony.

Celebrating Second Chances

The Games offer a place to see firsthand how donation transforms lives. For recipients and living donors, stepping onto the playing field is a chance to show the world what a full, active, and productive second chance looks like.

Uniting the Community

The Games serve as a central home where every part of the transplant world comes together under one roof. Recipients, donor families, living donors, patients on the waiting list, doctors, nurses, and organ procurement organizations gather to lean on each other, celebrate triumphs, and share stories that stay with participants long after the week ends.

Increasing awareness of the life-restoring importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation through the powerful stories of recipients, living donors, donor families, and those awaiting a transplant.

Growing potential donor numbers state-by-state and on the National Donate Life Registry by supporting established campaigns and harnessing the energy and drive of the transplant community.

Involving the entire transplant community—including caregivers, donation and transplant professionals, and partner organizations—in a shared mission to highlight the transformative benefits of donation.

Advocating for the broader transplant community through the Transplant Games, TransplantNATION magazine, the Transplant Community HUB, and educational initiatives that drive lifelong support.